Although
God tells us to love everyone, He doesn’t call us to be friends with everyone. We
need to “unfriend” certain people who negatively influence us—and I’m not just
talking about Facebook. Here are three types of people to unfriend:
1. People who gossip
about others.
“He who goes about as a slanderer reveals secrets, therefore do not
associate with a gossip” (Prov. 20:19). Remember, the one who gossips to
you will also gossip about you. Gossipers belittle and slander others to make themselves look better.
2. People with toxic attitudes. Toxic people will
poison your spirit. They are controlling, manipulative people who will drain
you emotionally, depress you, and make you feel guilty. “If anyone does not
obey our instruction…take note of that person; don’t associate with him”
(2 Thess. 3:14). Someone who is continually tearing you down is not your friend
because “A friend loves at all times” (Prov. 17:17).
If you’re married to a toxic person, ask God
to give you wisdom about what to do. If the relationship is abusive, you must
protect yourself and your children. Consult with your pastor or a godly
individual about the steps you should take.
3.
People who claim to be Christians but
don’t act like it. Paul said, “I am writing you not to associate with any
so called brother if he is an immoral person…a reviler, a drunkard or a
swindler—not to even eat with such a one” (1 Cor. 5:11). Their walk doesn’t
match their talk, and they hypocrisy can trick you into compromising your
integrity.
You
don’t need to have a lot of friends—just a few. Spend your time with those who
will encourage you and keep away from people with toxic attitudes and destructive
behavior. www.kentcrockett.blogspot.com www.makinglifecount.net
*****************************************************************************************
CLICK HERE
for 77 Answers to Bible Questions
Receive these
devotionals (free) by email: You can subscribe in the box on the
right at www.kentcrockett.blogspot.com (Your email will not be given out. You’ll receive an
email when the new devotional is posted)
Making Life Count Ministries
P.O. Box 680174
Prattville, Alabama 36068-0174
www.makinglifecount.net
Twitter: @KentCrockett
